When Should I Be Worried About a Watery Eye?

A watery eye, or excessive tearing, is a condition in which there is an overproduction of tears, which can lead to blurred vision, discomfort, and sometimes embarrassment. It's a problem that can affect anyone irrespective of age or gender, and it's important to understand the causes and when to seek help to maintain your eye health.

Understanding the Normal Eye Tear Process

Tears serve several important functions, such as nourishing your cornea, washing away foreign particles, and protecting your eyes from infections.

The lacrimal glands, located above each eye, are responsible for producing tears. These tears flow over the surface of your eyes and drain out through tiny channels called puncta, located in the corners of your upper and lower eyelids. From there, the tears flow through a small canal into your nose.

However, problems can occur when your eyes produce too many tears or when the tear drainage system is blocked. Both scenarios can result in a watery eye, each with its unique causes and potential solutions.

Causes of a Watery Eye

There are numerous causes, ranging from environmental factors to underlying health conditions. Firstly, external irritants such as dust, wind, allergens, or smoke can stimulate excessive tear production as your eyes try to protect and cleanse themselves. Similarly, dry eye syndrome, a condition where your eyes don't produce enough quality tears, can paradoxically cause a watery eye due to the overstimulation of emergency tear production.

On the other hand, blocked tear ducts or an inability to blink properly due to conditions like Bell's palsy can prevent tears from draining, leading to a watery eye.

Common Eye Conditions Associated with Excessive Tears

Several common eye conditions can be associated with watery eyes. These conditions often have other symptoms besides excessive tears, which can help in identifying the underlying cause.

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent layer covering the white part of your eye. This condition can lead to a watery eye, along with redness, itching, and a gritty feeling in the eye.

Blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelids, can also cause a watery eye. Other symptoms include red, swollen eyelids, a burning feeling in the eyes, and crusty debris around the eyelashes.

Home Remedies

If you've identified that your watery eye is due to minor irritants or dry eyes, there are a few home remedies you can try before scheduling a visit to the optometrist.

Keeping your eyes clean can help alleviate symptoms. Use a warm compress on your eyes to help unblock any blocked tear ducts and soothe your eyes. Over-the-counter eye drops or artificial tears can also provide relief, especially in the case of dry eyes.

Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can also help improve your eye health. If you are a contact lens wearer, give your eyes a break and switch to glasses temporarily.

When to See an Optometrist

While home remedies can provide relief in many cases, it's crucial to know when it's time to seek professional help. Persistent watery eyes, pain, redness, or a decrease in vision are clear signs that you should see an optometrist.

If your symptoms are associated with light sensitivity, double vision, or a bulging eye, it may indicate a more serious condition and should be addressed immediately.

Conclusion

Having a watery eye can be a simple response to an irritant or a symptom of a more complex eye condition. Understanding the causes and knowing when to seek professional help is crucial in maintaining good eye health. While home remedies can offer some relief, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult an optometrist if you have persistent or severe symptoms.

If you are experiencing persistent watery eyes, schedule an eye exam with our optometrist today. Visit Van Alstyne Eye Care at our office in Van Alstyne, Texas. Call (903) 482-0090 to book an appointment today.